The Houston Texans are gearing up for the 2026 NFL season with a strategic focus on their running back (RB) position. While David Montgomery has been acquired to take on the lead RB duties, the team remains optimistic about the potential of second-year RB Woody Marks. Marks, a shifty and versatile player, has already made an impact during his rookie season, leading the team in rushing yards and showcasing his pass-catching abilities. However, the ground game as a whole was inefficient, prompting the trade for Montgomery.
Marks' role is expected to evolve into a change-of-pace back and third-down pass catcher, with added kick return duties. His 208 receiving yards on 24 catches last season, including a 50-yard catch-and-run, highlight his potential in the passing game. Running backs coach Danny Barrett emphasizes the importance of Marks understanding his role, which he believes the player has already grasped. Barrett notes that Marks' confidence in the offense has reached an all-time high, and he is eager to take on a more prominent role in the passing game.
Marks himself is excited to pair with Montgomery, having observed their successful partnership in Detroit with Jahmyr Gibbs. He sees the value of having another back in the backfield, which will allow them to distribute the workload and maximize their individual strengths. Marks' versatility and ability to adapt to different roles make him a valuable asset for the Texans.
However, Marks' 2025 campaign was not without challenges. He was thrust into the starting role earlier than expected, which may have put more pressure on him than necessary. Despite this, he managed to lead the team in rushing yards and showed promise as a pass catcher. Marks' confidence and experience gained from this experience will be crucial in his development as a more versatile and effective RB in 2026.
In summary, the Houston Texans are strategically positioning themselves for success in the 2026 NFL season by leveraging the strengths of their RBs. Marks' versatility, confidence, and experience make him a key player in the team's plans, and his role is expected to expand in the passing game. As the season unfolds, Marks and Montgomery will be crucial in the team's efforts to improve their ground game and overall offensive performance.
